Cook Less Enjoy More 29 Easter Meal Prep Recipes

Easter should be about enjoying the day, not spending it stuck in the kitchen. With 29 recipes prepped ahead of time, there’s no need to miss out on the fun. No more racing between the stove and the table while everyone else is already on their second plate. Less cooking, more relaxing, and maybe even time for an extra helping of dessert.

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Leek and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy soup garnished with sautéed green onions and herbs.
Leek and Potato Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When it’s chilly outside, nothing beats a comforting bowl of soup. Leek and Potato Soup brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. It’s easy to prepare ahead, making your Easter meal planning a breeze. Plus, it’s a hit with guests who appreciate a touch of home-cooked comfort on their plates.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Potato Soup

Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine closing your Easter feast with a dessert that leaves everyone smiling. Peanut Butter Cake does just that, combining the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter in a sweet, indulgent cake. It’s the kind of treat that makes everyone ask for seconds, and it’s simple to whip up in advance.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Close-up of fluffy cheddar biscuits topped with herbs on a metal tray, with leafy greens in the background.
Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Adding a burst of cheesy goodness to your meal, Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits are impossible to resist. They’re fluffy, cheesy, and have that hint of garlic that everyone loves. Make a batch ahead of time; they reheat beautifully, ensuring fluffy biscuits ready to serve with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Shortbread Cookies

Close-up view of a pile of Shortbread Cookies with visible small holes on the surface.
Shortbread Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Holiday meals always call for a touch of sweetness that isn’t too overwhelming. Shortbread Cookies bring just that, with their buttery texture and just-right sweetness. They’re perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the Easter celebrations, offering a simple yet fulfilling end to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Shortbread Cookies

Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Close-up of a tater tot breakfast casserole topped with melted cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped herbs.
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Easter morning breakfast doesn’t get easier than this. Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole combines favorite breakfast flavors in one dish, making the morning meal stress-free. It’s a crowd-pleaser, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Chocolate Pie

A slice of chocolate pie with a swirl of whipped cream.
Chocolate Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love chocolate? Chocolate Pie offers a rich, smooth chocolate filling enveloped in a flaky crust, making it an irresistible Easter dessert. It’s simple to make in advance and serves as the perfect sweet ending to your feast, proving that chocolate really does make everything better.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pie

Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A comforting side dish that easily feeds a crowd, Funeral Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious. This dish becomes a talking point at any gathering, promising zero leftovers. It’s one of those make-ahead miracles that tastes even better the next day, letting you focus on enjoying the holiday.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine a dessert that combines the best of sweet and salty. Salted Caramel Cheesecake does just that, making it a show-stopping finish to your Easter meal. It’s lush, creamy, and has that perfect caramel drizzle, ideal for preparing ahead of time to wow your guests without any last-minute fuss.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

French Onion Soup

A savory dish of French Onion Soup, topped with melted cheese and garnished with sprigs of fresh thyme.
French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start your Easter meal with something warm and inviting. French Onion Soup offers a rich, savory broth filled with tender onions and topped with gooey cheese. It’s a classic dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare ahead, allowing you to serve a sophisticated starter with ease.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Soup

Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Close-up of bacon-wrapped scallops secured with toothpicks, seasoned with spices, and cooked until golden and crispy.
Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a unique appetizer that will have everyone talking, look no further than Smoky Bacon Pig Shots. They’re smoky, savory, and boast a kick of spice, all wrapped up in a bacon package. These little bites can be prepared in advance, making them the perfect hassle-free starter for your Easter gathering.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Bacon Pig Shots

Lemon Bars

Close-up of a lemon bar with a crumbly, light yellow top layer and a thicker, moist filling resting on a shortbread crust.
Lemon Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your Easter table with Lemon Bars. Their tangy citrus flavor cuts through the richness of the meal, offering a light, refreshing dessert. Easy to make ahead and even easier to enjoy, they provide a tangy end to your feast that’s as refreshing as spring itself.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Bars

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Close-up of cheesy garlic bread rolls topped with chopped green onions on a white plate, reminiscent of Loaded Buffalo Chicken Rolls.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Upgrade your appetizer game with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls. Spicy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, they’re a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re easy to prepare in advance, ensuring you have a mouth-watering starter that gets everyone excited for the meal to come.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Rolls

Waffles

Freshly made waffles on a plate with strawberries.
Waffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Start your Easter Sunday with something sweet and fulfilling like Waffles. They’re versatile, beloved by all ages, and can be dressed up with your favorite toppings. Making them ahead means a hassle-free morning, allowing you to focus on the joy of the holiday while still serving up a breakfast favorite.
Get the Recipe: Waffles

Potato Salad

Close-up of creamy potato salad with chopped celery and black pepper seasoning.
Potato Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

No Easter meal is complete without a classic side like Potato Salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of comforting flavors. Best of all, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making your meal prep a smart move. Serve it chilled, and watch it disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Potato Salad

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hashbrown Casserole is a side dish that brings cheesy, creamy goodness to your Easter table. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing favorite that’s effortlessly easy to prepare in advance. This dish allows you to enjoy more time with loved ones while still serving up a side that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

A close-up of a sourdough cinnamon roll topped with creamy icing and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For a twist on a breakfast classic, try Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. They bring a tangy depth to the sweet cinnamon filling, creating a memorable start to your Easter Sunday. Make them the day before for a stress-free morning that smells as good as it tastes, with minimal effort required.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simplify your Easter breakfast or brunch with Egg Casserole. It’s a hearty, customizable dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Preparing it ahead of time means you get to relax and enjoy the morning festivities instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It’s a practical choice for a celebratory breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Pecan Pie Cheesecake

A slice of pecan pie being served on a cake slice.
Pecan Pie Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Indulge in a dessert that combines two favorites with Pecan Pie Cheesecake. This delight offers the nutty, sweet flavors of pecan pie along with the creamy richness of cheesecake. It’s a dessert that can be made ahead, ensuring a decadent finale to your Easter meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Cheesecake

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a side dish that brings comfort to every bite, Mac and Cheese is a guaranteed hit. It’s creamy, cheesy, and embodies the ultimate comfort food. Preparing it ahead of time allows for a rich and indulgent side that’s ready to serve, making your Easter meal both comforting and hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Cinnamon rolls in a pan with icing.
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Wake up to the aroma of Homemade Cinnamon Rolls on Easter morning. They’re sweet, fluffy, and covered in a delicious glaze. Made ahead, they allow for a relaxed morning that starts the holiday on a sweet note. It’s a surefire way to gather everyone around the table for a memorable holiday breakfast.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a touch of elegance to your Easter meal with Dauphinoise Potatoes. These thinly sliced potatoes baked in cream are a luxurious side that upgrades any meal. They’re surprisingly simple to make ahead, allowing you to present a dish that’s both sophisticated and utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Pie

A slice of Mississippi mud pie on a plate.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dessert that’s rich, chocolatey, and absolutely indulgent, Mississippi Mud Pie is the answer. It’s a crowd-pleaser with its gooey, rich filling and crispy crust. Making it in advance allows for a worry-free dessert that’s ready to impress, ensuring your Easter meal ends on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy cauliflower casserole in a white dish with spoons.
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole transforms a simple vegetable into a creamy, cheesy delight. It’s a healthier side that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a great addition to your Easter meal. Prepare it ahead of time for a delicious side that’s ready to go, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Dinner Rolls

Close-up of freshly baked golden-brown dinner rolls, with one roll partially torn to show its soft, fluffy interior.
Dinner Rolls. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No meal is complete without fluffy, buttery Dinner Rolls on the table. They’re perfect for soaking up sauces or enjoying on their own. Making them ahead of time ensures you have warm, fresh bread for your guests with no stress, making your Easter meal both fulfilling and seamless.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combine the coziness of cinnamon rolls with the classic taste of apple pie, and you get Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. It’s a unique dessert that’s sure to impress. The make-ahead aspect means less time in the kitchen on Easter and more time savoring the sweet finish to your meal alongside loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole in a casserole dish with a portion removed.
Corn Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Corn Casserole is a side dish that brings a sweet, creamy texture to your meal. It’s simple to make, comforting, and pairs well with everything. Crafting this dish in advance ensures you have a no-fuss side that complements your Easter feast perfectly, allowing for a stress-free holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Corn Casserole

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Italian Sliders offer a mouth-watering combination of Italian flavors in a bite-sized package. They’re easy to make in advance and perfect for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve them up for a fuss-free appetizer that’s full of flavor, making your Easter gathering a hit from the start.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Pineapple Casserole

Pineapple casserole in a casserole dish with a serving spoon in it.
Pineapple Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Add a sweet and savory element to your table with Pineapple Casserole. This dish is a surprising blend of flavors that’s always a hit. It’s easy to prep ahead, and its unique taste pairs well with traditional Easter dishes, offering a memorable side that stands out for all the right reasons.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking to end your Easter meal with a decadent dessert, German Chocolate Cake is a perfect choice. Its rich layers and coconut-pecan frosting make each slice a luxurious treat. Made ahead, it offers a stress-free way to dazzle your guests and wrap up your holiday meal with a touch of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

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